From fruit off some of the oldest Marsanne plantings in the world, dating back to 1927, the 2009 Marsanne has intense aromas of honeyed white peach, ripe pears and orange blossom. The moderately viscous, medium-bodied palate has a solid backbone of high acidity. Very clean and pure, this wine has a good intensity of stone fruit flavors and a long finish. Drinking now if you prefer a primary fruit style, this Marsanne has the capacity to age 7-9+ years, developing a richer, beeswax / dried fruit character. Importers: Epic, Santa Cruz, CA; tel. (800) 322-3742, and Classic Wine Imports (Massachusetts only), Norwood, MA; tel. (781) 352-1100

Tahbilk is proud owner of the largest Marsanne holdings in the world, with a reputation for making ageworthy examples. Perhaps this one just needs more time, then, as it comes across as nothing more than a nicely balanced, medium-bodied dry white with modest notes of pears and almonds. ——J.C.(5/1/2011)—— 85